Monkey Bites, Bag Snatching And Bali Belly

They’ve also highlighted key issues that Australians traveling during the school holidays should be aware of.

While claims for incidents like monkey bites and reef cuts were the most notable, the most frequent reason for claims is Bali belly (gastro).

SCTI reported a 79% increase in such claims in January 2025 compared to last year. Since November 2024, over 56% of gastro claim cases have originated in Indonesia, with the average payout exceeding $1,000.

Additionally, scooter and moped-related accidents are common, with 21 claims from Australians holidaying in Bali last year, two of which required hospitalisation. There has also been an increase in scooter bag and phone snatching incidents.

The most expensive Bali-related claim paid out in 2024 involved a young person experiencing seizures who required an air ambulance home at a cost of around $232,000.

“The demand from Australians for Bali breaks over the summer has been on the rise since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jess Strange, Chief Customer Officer for SCTI.

“Since the 2022/23 summer holidays, we’ve seen a 43 per cent increase in the number of Australian policies bought for trips to Bali. Interest in travelling to the beautiful island has continued to grow during the summer of 2024/25.”

Beyond the physical injuries, travellers often face stress, disruption and logistical challenges following unexpected events.

With an increase in policies sold to Australians flocking to this popular destination over summer and a surge in unexpected health issues like Bali Belly (gastro), Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) is primed and ready to support travellers as they plan their next trips to the Indonesian isle during the upcoming Easter and school holiday period.

Since it launched, SCTI has supported over one million Australian adventures worldwide and provided peace of mind to 1.5 million Australians.

https://www.scti.com.au/